A conversation with Casa de Salud executive director Diego Abente

Imagine being in a foreign country when a global pandemic breaks out. Travel is restricted. You have no insurance coverage there, nor do you speak the language or understand the healthcare system. Maybe you need a doctor, or just basic guidance. What’s your move? Recent immigrants to the St. Louis area may be facing just this quandary right now. One place willing to help them, regardless of their citizenship status, is Casa de Salud. Located at Chouteau and Compton, the clinic aims to ensure that new arrivals to the area—particularly those facing cultural, linguistic or financial barriers—have access to primary care, mental health services, and assistance navigating the system. The COVID-19 crisis, however, has forced Casa to adapt on the fly, says its new executive director, Diego Abente.